Microbial mats are layered communities of microorganisms, primarily bacteria and archaea, that thrive in various environments, including hot springs, salt flats, and ocean floors. These mats can be colorful, often appearing in shades of green, brown, or red, depending on the types of microbes present. They play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and can help stabilize sediments. These mats are among the oldest living ecosystems on Earth, dating back billions of years. They provide insights into early life and are studied in the context of astrobiology to understand potential life on other planets. Microbial mats also contribute to the formation of stromatolites, which are fossilized structures formed by the activity of these microorganisms.